Town of South Bruce Peninsula

The Ombudsman received two complaints alleging that the Town of South Bruce Peninsula voted in closed session on April 28, 2022, contrary to the requirements in the Municipal Act, 2001. Specifically, the complainants alleged that council voted in closed session not to appeal a decision of the Ontario Court of Appeal.

The Ombudsman’s review determined that the in camera discussion on April 28, 2022 fit within the open meeting exceptions for both litigation or potential litigation and solicitor-client privilege. While in closed session, council voted to direct staff not to proceed with any further appeal of the court decision. The Ombudsman found this vote did not contravene the Act, as the vote occurred during a properly closed session and was a direction to staff.

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